Remembrances of vacuum tube days
As a young teenager, I developed a love for electronics which became a lifelong love affair. In those days vacuum tubes were the norm and solid state devices such as transistors weren't in usage then....
Forum Discussion
BobsYourUncle wrote:mr. ed wrote:
Tubes that aren't being used are impervious to extreme cold (or heat for that matter). I'm not sure about electrolytic capacitors, though. Perhaps the electrolyte substance inside could freeze at minus 30, but I can't say for sure. In time, through use, electrolytic capacitors can eventually dry out and need replacing. That jukebox sounds like it could be a valuable item. Too bad you can't store it in a warmer indoor location, but I don't think it really matters. Of course, there are mechanical devices inside (i.e., turntable motor, which shouldn't be affected, either). Any lubricating oil used on moving parts may thicken up somewhat, but return to normal when warmer temps arrive.
Thanks for that.
Didn't think the tubes would be affected, but I did wonder about the big caps.
It is a valuable item, and I was paying big bucks for heated inside storage. I was fed up with 151 bucks a month for heated storage, had to bring it home. I live in a very small townhouse and there is no room inside for it.
Since that Wurlitzer is dated from 1955, it's possible the electrolytic caps may be due for replacement anyway. But I would wait until you run it again. If the sound is good, without noticeable hum, you're probably good to go.
